INTERPRETER Alexandra Jarocka is putting her communication skills to good use on behalf of Polish people starting new lives in the North East.

Today sees the launch of the Chronicle’s online Polish blog, offering all the latest news for the region’s growing Polish communities.

Having moved to England eight years ago, Alex can offer advice on settling in as well as issues caused by cultural differences.

Alex, 27, of Clavering Place, Annfield Plain, runs her own business and works alongside police forces across the region.

She said: “I’m thrilled to be writing a blog for the Chronicle.

“It is a fantastic opportunity to keep people from Poland informed about what is going on in the North East and also offer them help and advice with issues such as where to find work, housing and education.’’

Alex originally came to England in 2000 but returned to Poland in 2003. Having become attached to the North East and desperate to return she spent her last £10 travelling to a job exhibition held weeks before Poland joined the EU in 2004.

She said: “I’d fallen in love with the North East and was upset to be back in Poland. At the exhibition there was a display for jobs in the North East and I was able to get one working at the MetroCentre. The day I came back was the happiest day of my life.

“Because I’d been to England before, people started to write to me asking for advice about what to do and how to start out.

“I’m just pleased I can help people and the blog is another way for me to do this.”

It’s thought there are about 4,000 Polish workers in the region, not taking into account their families.